Designed to meet the needs of pro photographers and videographers, but undoubtedly a “gotta have” for those who just want the top of the line model, the EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR features a new 20.2-megapixel full frame Canon CMOS sensor and dual DIGIC 6+ image processors, with the ability to capture high-resolution still images at speeds up to 14 frames per second as well as high-definition video up-to-4K 60P, as well as Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus (AF) technology.

The new flagship camera also features:

• Auto Exposure (AE) and predictive AF for viewfinder shooting and up to 16 fps in Live View mode;

Canon says the new camera includes an improved 61-point High-Density Reticular AF II system with all AF points selectable by the user (and up to 41 cross-type points depending on the lens in use). The improved AF system includes expanded coverage that supports AF at maximum apertures up to f/8 with all 61 points for high precision autofocus even when using EF super-telephoto lenses with an EF extender.

The camera also boasts excellent dynamic range and reduced colour noise compared to its predecessor throughout its standard ISO speed range of 100 – 51,200. Expansion ISO speeds of 50, 102,400, 204,800 and 409,600 are also available.

A first for the Canon EOS-1D series, this camera also features a 360,000-pixel RGB+IR metering sensor with enhanced precision and performance compared to its predecessor, improving facial recognition and tracking, as well as nature scenes. Additionally, the advanced AE system can detect and compensate for flickering light sources such as sodium vapour lamps that are often used in gymnasiums and swimming pools. When enabled, this anti-flicker system automatically adjusts shutter release timing to help reduce disparities in exposure and colour especially during continuous burst shooting.

When combined with the EOS-1D X Mark II’s high-sensitivity full-frame CMOS sensor, the new camera’s ability to record Full HD video at frame rates up to 120p will allow videographers to produce high quality slow motion video even in extremely low light. To make video shooting even more intuitive, the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera’s touch-screen LCD allows videographers to select the camera’s AF point before and during video recording with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which provides responsive, accurate and quiet camcorder-like video autofocus to DSLRs, notes the company.

A built-in GPS receiver with compass for precise geo-tagged information of latitude, longitude, elevation and direction is also part of the package. (This is valuable to those who need to track their locations, as well as providing the ability to sync a multiple-camera setup with extreme accuracy and precision.) It is also possible to use the camera’s built-in GPS to automatically sync the camera’s time to the atomic clock.

An improved grip also makes the camera easier for photographers to hold and manoeuver while shooting.

In response to feedback from professional EOS users, the AF points in the camera’s viewfinder can be illuminated in red for improved visibility, especially when shooting in dark locations. AF sensitivity in low light has been doubled from EV -2 to EV -3 at the centre AF point when the camera is set to One-Shot AF, enabling the camera to autofocus in extremely dark shooting conditions such as a moonlit nightscape. Viewfinder AF coverage has also been increased for greater compositional flexibility.

As with all EOS-1D series cameras, the new camera’s rugged construction and magnesium alloy body is weather resistant. The camera also features improved controls and more in-camera image quality enhancements than ever before, including a Digital Lens Optimizer function offering high quality aberration correction which can now be achieved without an external computer. This feature makes it easier for professional photographers to deliver finished files to their clients, especially in situations when access to a personal computer is impractical or inconvenient.

The estimated retail price for the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II is $7,999.99 (MSRP, body only), and for a limited time includes a bonus 64GB CFast Memory Card and CFast Card Reader/Writer with purchase. The new camera is scheduled to begin shipping in April 2016.